Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the Costa Rican economy has been more affected than ever. As a result, each of us has had to make adjustments in our finances and daily activities.
Economy and food are closely linked and this time we want to tell you about an alternative to improve these two aspects of human life; it is about implementing a home or family garden. Defined by the Ecotechnology Unit of the UNAM as "plots adjacent to the house where vegetables are grown intensively and continuously throughout the year". This is an excellent option that is friendly to our economy and health, since these are organic crops, free of harmful chemicals.
On the other hand, we tell them that growing food is a practice that generates benefits in the mental health of people, especially those who are in older adulthood because it allows them to stay motivated and focused on carrying out this project.
In addition, Estrada and Escobar (2020) mention that having a home garden favors interpersonal relationships, the ability to work as a team and improves the quality of life; at the same time it promotes the exchange of knowledge between generations.
So, here are three aspects that should be taken into account before implementing the home garden (based on the guide provided by the Secretariat of the Environment of the Government of Mexico City, 2020):
Lighting
Ideally, the place chosen for planting should receive sunlight between four and six hours a day. To start with the garden it is possible to use seeds, herbs and even vegetables that we have at home.
These can be planted in a small container where they receive sun and water while they begin to grow until they are ready to be transplanted.
Cultivation substrate
A substrate is a natural, mineral or organic material that helps the roots to obtain the nutrients necessary for their growth. It must have the ideal balance of porosity and allow the uptake of water and air (Sembralia, 2021). Therefore, if we have made the decision to implement the home garden, it is important to consult about which substrate is suitable for each type of crop, in order to obtain better results.
3. Irrigation
It is recommended that irrigation be done at night and that as much as possible we use water from rain or from washing fruits or vegetables to reduce excessive waste.
For this practice we must be patient and constantly monitor our crops. In case of any doubt we can consult the various manuals that the internet offers us.
